How is the test conducted?
Prior to the study, a sleep technologist will place sensors on your scalp, face, chest and legs. These sensors will record brainwave activity (to assess sleep stage), eye movements, muscle activity, heart rhythm, body movements, nasal/oral airflow, respiratory effort and oxygenation. In addition, your body position will be observed on video camera.
The sensors are attached to your body in a manner similar to electrocardiogram (EKG) electrodes and are not painful. In rare instances, some people with sensitive skin develop local irritation at the electrode sites. If you have experienced skin irritation due to EKG testing in the past, please notify the Sleep Center and the technologist prior to the study.
What happens during a sleep study? Will it hurt? Will I be able to go to the bathroom?
Sleep studies are not painful. Several electrodes with wires will be attached to your head to monitor brain waves while you sleep. Most people quickly become accustomed to them and have no trouble sleeping. Once a patient is “hooked up,” they are still mobile, and can go to the bathroom without difficulty.
Should I bring my regular medication?
Yes, unless instructed otherwise by your doctor. Please bring any medications you take at night with you and the sleep technician will instruct you when to take them.
Will I see the doctor in the morning?
No. The data that is collected during the study must be evaluated and scored. A follow up appointment should be made to meet with one of our providers to discuss the results of your sleep study.
How is my privacy protected?
Sleep studies routinely include a digitally recorded video that enables the Sleep Center physician to visually observe sleep position, movements, respiration and other sleep-related information. We are required to have your written consent to perform the sleep study and to record the video. This data is protected by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), which established national standards for the security and privacy of health data.
What about the cost?
Most insurance companies cover services for sleep disorders under medical benefits. Lung and Sleep Wellness Center will verify coverage with your insurance company prior to testing. If you would like to know what your insurance will pay on a sleep study, you must contact your insurance company yourself. Most insurance will NOT pay 100% of the charges. Please understand that you are responsible for any balance after insurance. You are responsible for any deductible that has not yet been met. Payment must be made at least 72 hours prior to each sleep study appointment.